As a transformative nonprofit leader, what should you stop doing today?

I am a big fan of list of things “to stop” doing. We all have “to do” lists but we all need more “to stop” lists. Here is a good one for transformative nonprofit leaders.

Which is your favorite?

Out: Micro-management, or the need to control every aspect of your nonprofit. In: Empowerment, the ability to give your people some rope–even rope to make mistakes without blame.

Out: Management by walking around the office; it is no longer enough to be visible. In: Leadership by watching and listening, engaging in conversation, implementing the ideas presented to you, and distributing the results.

Out: Pretending you know everything. You don’t have all the answers, so why try to make people think you do? In: Knowing your leadership team members and trusting them. Choose great people who have the right skills and fit the culture. And get out of the way.

Out: No mistakes, or a “no tolerance policy” some still think works. In: Learning from mistakes, or being the first to admit an error.

Out: The balance sheet drives the nonprofit, and informs all other decisions. In: People drive the nonprofit, boosting donor loyalty, and profit.

Out: Job competency is sufficient. Do the job asked, and you’ll survive. In: Recruit “A” players who will go the extra mile. They’re out there.